Today we’d like to introduce you to Ana Luisa Perez.
Ana Luisa, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
It started in 2006, I was diagnosed with HIV on May 18th, my father’s birthday. I will never forget that day. My kids were six years old and six months old. Learning I had HIV hit me like ton of bricks, especially because I wasn’t being reckless. I was in a committed relationship, or so I thought. Turns out, he was in an open relationship but failed to let me know. We had been apart most of the pregnancy because we had lost everything, he lost his job, which trickles down to no home, no car, no money. So, my parents took my son and me into their home. All in hopes that he would be able to get a chance to work and find us a place again. During this time, we rarely saw each other, but I understood, he was working, trying to get our family together. I gave birth to our daughter, he wasn’t present. About two months later, he came to pick us up. Hesitantly, I went back.
About two months after I went back, his “girlfriend “ called. I asked how long she’d been dating him, she answered about seven months. My heart dropped. I asked her if she knew he had a baby, she was surprised as well, she had no idea we existed. We talked for a while and hung up. Later, when he arrived home, I informed him that all his belongings were outside and he was no longer welcome in my home. About a month later, I started with fevers and chills, nothing serious just like a cold. I lost weight, but I blamed it on stress. But then, I had a horrible ear infection, so I went to parent planhood, they asked if I wanted to get tested for STDs and HIV, having known he was unfaithful, I said yes. The rapid test tested positive, the nurse said not to worry that it was 100% accurate. So, they did the blood test. She said come back in a week and we will have your test results. A week later, May 18th, my worst nightmare came true. I was tested, yes, negative for all STDs except for HIV. I looked at my kids, they were so little and I felt like I wasn’t going to see them grow up. My life changed in an instant. I kept my secret for months, up until I got really sick.
During that time, I started on HIV meds. I finally told my parents, I thought they were going to abandon me, but the complete opposite happened. They asked me to come home and they would care for me. I was in and out of hospitals, I would get extremely sick and then better. It was a complete roller coaster. Then, about two years later, I met my husband, he was a temp at the office where I would pick up my meds at times. I never had to disclose, cause he already knew I was sick. We started dating and we got married. We have been together for 12 years now, my son is 18 and about to graduate high school, my daughter is 14 and is focused on being a surgeon. I never thought I’d see them grow up. But I’m so blessed, God and wonderful family has supported me through this journey.
Has it been a smooth road?
My struggles are with my HIV meds, sometimes they kick my butt, I feel nauseous and weak. But I always have to take them. I know it’s not easy and the easier choice is to give up, but you have to push yourself. Having a great support system is key. Family and friends who will push you to stay on track. Also, going to therapy, because there’s so much that regular people might not understand. Or stuff that you’re too embarrassed to talk about. I go to therapy and like to have that emotional support.
What do you do, what do you specialize in, what are you known for, etc. What are you most proud of? What sets you apart from others?
I studied criminal justice but currently, work with a chiropractor. I’ve been here for two years, I love the fact I help people feel better, whether it’s by listening to them or supporting them in their time of need. I am open about my HIV, I’ve never been ashamed of it. I’ve been super lucky that I’ve never had someone be rude to me.
Finding a mentor and building a network are often cited in studies as a major factor impacting one’s success. Do you have any advice or lessons to share regarding finding a mentor or networking in general?
I’ve never found a mentor, I kinda wish I had early on. I try to help other women who have been newly diagnosed and others who struggle with the fact that they at positive. I usually read articles about new meds and new technologies about HIV.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1011 N Church St
102
McKinney, Texas 75069 - Phone: 4694083380
- Email: solandnani@hotmail.com
- Instagram: solandnani
Image Credit:
My daughter Solangel
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